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Context

The Karnataka government has allotted land in Bengaluru, for developing India’s first Quantum City (Q-City), to build a $ 20 billion quantum economy by 2035.

What is Quantum City ?

It is a planned, integrated hub designed to drive innovation, research, and commercialization in the field of quantum technology.

These hubs bring together academic institutions, businesses, startups, and research facilities to promote a collaborative ecosystem for developing advanced quantum technologies.

What Will Quantum City Offer?

State-of-the-Art Laboratories

Advanced facilities for research in quantum computing, communication, and sensing, enabling breakthroughs in quantum algorithms and hardware.

Incubation Facilities for Startups

Dedicated spaces to nurture quantum startups.

Academic-Industry Collaboration

Partnerships with institutions like the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) and Raman Research Institute (RRI) to bridge research and practical applications.  

Production Clusters

Infrastructure for manufacturing quantum hardware, processors, and accessories, including India’s first Quantum Hardware Park and a dedicated FabLine.

R&D Clusters with HPC Integration

Collaboration with quantum high-performance computing (HPC) data centers to support advanced simulations and applications.  

National Quantum Mission (NQM)

The NQM, approved in April 2023, with a budget of ₹6,003.65 crore for 2023–2031.

Implemented by the Department of Science & Technology, it aims to make India a global leader in quantum technology.  

Key Objectives

• Develop quantum computers with 50–1,000 physical qubits within eight years.
• Establish satellite-based quantum communication over 2,000 km within India and with other countries.
• Implement inter-city Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) over 2,000 km.
• Build multi-node quantum networks with quantum memories.
• Develop high-sensitivity magnetometers, atomic clocks, and quantum materials like superconductors and topological materials.

Implementation

• Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs): Four hubs in top institutes (IISc Bengaluru, IIT Madras, IIT Bombay, IIT Delhi) focusing on quantum computing, communication, sensing, and materials.  
• Security Focus: Developing quantum-resilient encryption and post-quantum cryptography to protect critical infrastructure.

Significance

The NQM supports sectors like healthcare, defense, energy, and data security by promoting innovation in quantum computing, secure communication, and precision sensing. It aligns with national priorities like Digital India and Make in India.

Advantages of Quantum City and Quantum Technology

Enhanced Computing Power: Quantum computers solve complex problems exponentially faster, aiding drug discovery, climate modeling, and optimization.

Secure Communication: QKD ensures unhackable networks, vital for defense and cybersecurity. For example, India’s planned quantum satellite will secure communications over 500 km.

Precision Sensing: Quantum sensors enable early disease detection and environmental monitoring.

AI and Machine Learning: Quantum algorithms improve AI model efficiency, benefiting finance and governance.

Challenges to Overcome

Hardware Dependence: India relies on foreign quantum chips, limiting self-reliance. QpiAI’s “Indus” uses imported qubits.

High Costs: Building quantum infrastructure requires significant investment.

Talent Retention: Brain drain remains a concern, Indian quantum researchers working abroad due to better opportunities.

Environmental Sensitivity: Qubits are prone to errors from temperature or magnetic interference, requiring advanced facilities.  

Ethical Risks: Quantum-powered AI could lead to privacy issues or unintended consequences, necessitating ethical guidelines.  

Way Forward

Boost Indigenous Hardware: Accelerate domestic qubit fabrication through the FabLine and partnerships with DRDO and ISRO.  

Increase Funding Access: Expand the Quantum Venture Capital Fund and reduce bureaucratic hurdles for startups.

Retain Talent: Offer competitive incentives and global exposure to retain researchers.

Address Public Concerns: Balance quantum investments with infrastructure improvements to maintain public support.  

Ethical Frameworks: Develop guidelines for quantum technology use, ensuring privacy and security, as highlighted by global quantum forums.

Conclusion

Quantum City in Bengaluru marks a bold step toward positioning India as a global quantum leader. While challenges like hardware dependence and high costs persist, Bengaluru’s innovation ecosystem provides a strong foundation. By addressing the hurdles, Quantum City can transform India’s technological landscape, securing its place in the global quantum revolution.  

Source: HINDUSTANTIMES